FEATURED FEARMAKER: David McAbee

David McAbee

Filmmaker, Writer

Location:

Biography:

I grew up in a small town near San Luis Obispo Ca. From a very young age, I started writing short stories and making horror movies with my friends (as many kids from the pre-iPhone generation).

From day 1 all I have wanted to do was have fun and make something cool. Right out of school I became a touring bass player and radio DJ/producer.

In 2009 I moved to Los Angeles. Shortly after that I started producing and working for The Travel Channel/Food Network and any other network that would hire me. In 2015 I finally stepped out and produced my first pilot which ended up leading me to my first writer/director credit for Night Terrors.

This last year I wanted to get back to the roots of why I love writing: TO CREATE. The best thing about writing is you don’t have to wait for anyone. It’s note like being in a band. The only thing stopping you, is you.

Influences:

One of my biggest inspirations growing up was Larry Cohen. His movies are just so perfect and fun! I remember watching some of his 80s movies and thinking, I want to write like that.

Once Night Terrors wrapped, I was lucky enough to sit with Larry Cohen and show him a cut of the short. I’ll never forget it, “You made a good movie, kid”. I’m sure he was just entertaining me, but HOLY SHIT LARRY COHEN SAW MY FILM.

Challenges:

Obviously, money is a BIG factor. Things cost money and I always feel you have to pay people for their work. I want to be paid as a writer as much as my actors and crew need to be paid, but sometimes you get lucky and people just want to make something they like.

So I’ve figured that taking the time to write something you like and that others will get behind on. People are willing to help, you may only get one chance with that sometimes

Advice for the Community:

JUST MAKE STUFF! Good, bad, solo or with other people. If you have the itch, scratch the shit out of it.